Mean Kujala Score Research Articles

Outcomes of Allograft Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction in Children and Adolescents with Hypermobility.

IntroductionMedial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction is used to treat patellofemoral instability either in isolation or in combination with other procedures. Use of allograft can preserve native tissue in children and can be advantageous in patients with connective tissue disorders, including ligamentous laxity. There is limited evidence regarding functional outcomes of allograft MPFL reconstruction in children and adolescents. This study aimed to assess the short to mid-term results of allograft MPFL reconstruction in children with hypermobility at a tertiary pediatric orthopedic center.Materials and Methods:We retrospectively reviewed all children and adolescents who had undergone allograft MPFL reconstruction over 4 years. The primary outcome measure was the validated Kujala score for patellofemoral disorders. The secondary outcome measures included complications such as redislocation of the patella needing revision surgery. Patients with hypermobility were quantified using Beighton criteria. Statistical analysis was performed using Graph Pad Prism (V6).ResultsBetween 2012 and 2016, the senior author performed 76 allograft MPFL reconstructions in 57 patients. Nineteen patients had bilateral surgery. The mean age was 14 (7–16) years with a female: male ratio of 3:1. The mean Beighton score was 7. Hypermobility was part of a syndrome in ten patients. The mean follow-up was 3 (1–4) years. Nine patients had trochleoplasty and six patients had tibial tubercle osteotomy, in addition to allograft MPFL reconstruction. These fifteen patients, who had additional procedures, were excluded during the analysis of the outcome measures. The mean Kujala score was 89 (80–100). The overall complication rate was 11% (9/76). These included two patella fractures and seven (9%) patients with recurrent instability needing revision surgery. There was no significant difference in complication rates between syndromic and nonsyndromic patients (P = 0.9).ConclusionOur study shows excellent short to mid-term functional outcomes of allograft MPFL reconstruction in children and adolescents with hypermobility.

Trochleoplasty for severe trochlear dysplasia significantly improves the quality of life of patients with symptomatic patellar instability

BackgroundTrochleoplasty is a recognized surgical technique to address severe trochlear dysplasia. The clinical and radiological outcomes of trochleoplasty surgery in trochlear dysplasia have been well reported. There is a paucity in literature regarding the correlation between trochleoplasty and quality of life (QoL). The aim of this study is to measure the improvement in QoL, in patients with severe trochlear dysplasia and recurrent patellar instability following trochleoplasty. MethodsBetween 2013 and 2019, 51 trochleoplasty cases were performed in 48 patients. They were identified from our prospectively kept database. All operations were performed by a fellowship trained consultant sports knee surgeon. Functional outcomes and QoL scores were assessed using Kujala, IKDC and EQ-5D index. Objective outcomes were obtained following each patient’s latest follow-up assessment. ResultsThe mean age at operation was 22y (SD ± 4.7, range 14–37y) and the mean follow-up period was 21.6 months (SD ± 15.2, range 12–60 months). The mean Kujala score improved from 58.1 (SD 14.9) to 77.9 (SD 17.3) at latest follow-up (p < 0.001). The mean IKDC score improved from 40.5 (SD 14.2) to 69.5 (SD 22.8) at latest follow up (p < 0.001). The mean EQ-5D index also improved from 0.593 (SD 0.257) to 0.824 (SD 0.189) at latest follow-up (p = 0.003). A higher Body Mass Index (BMI; >30 kg/m2) was associated with inferior outcomes. ConclusionTrochleoplasty is an effective surgical technique which improves the QoL in patients suffering from patellar instability secondary to severe trochlear dysplasia. BMI can be used to predict post-operative outcomes.

Protocols of rehabilitation and return to sport, and clinical outcomes after medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction with and without tibial tuberosity osteotomy: a systematic review.

No consensus exists on rehabilitation programmes after medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction (MPFLR) with or without tibial tuberosity osteotomy (TTO). This systematic review examined the content and timeline of rehabilitation (weightbearing, range of motion [ROM] and exercise therapy) and return to sport (RTS), as well as patient-reported outcomes after MPFLR with or without TTO. The PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Sciences, CINAHL and SPORTDiscus databases were searched from inception to December 2021. Studies that reported postoperative rehabilitation programmes and patient-reported outcomes for patients aged ≥ 18years who underwent MPFLR with or without concomitant TTO were included. Eighty-five studies were included, 57 of which were case series and only one randomised controlled trial on rehabilitation programmes. Non-weightbearing was set within oneweek post-operatively in approximately 80% of weightbearing programmes for MPFLR without and with TTO. Joint immobilisation was set within oneweek post-operatively in 65.3% and 93.8% of programmes for MPFLR without and with TTO, respectively. Weightbearing and ROM (≤ 90°) restriction were within threeweeks post-operatively for > 50% of the programmes. Quadriceps strengthening was the most cited exercise therapy (33 programmes), most often initiated within twoweeks post-operatively. However, few other exercise programmes were cited (only nine programmes). RTS was mostly noted at sixmonths post-operatively (35 programmes). The weighted mean Kujala score was 87.4 points. Regardless of TTO addition to MPFLR, most studies restricted weightbearing and ROM only in the early post-operative period, with seemingly favourable clinical results. Limited information was available on post-operative exercise therapy.

Can Patella Instability After Total Knee Arthroplasty be Treated With Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction?

BackgroundThe aim of this study was to describe outcomes of patients who had undergone medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction (MPFLr) to treat patellofemoral instability (PFI) following total knee arthroplasty (TKA). Material and methodsThis is a retrospective case series of consecutive patients treated for PFI after TKA. Patients were included if they had radiographic documentation of patella dislocation or subluxation and component position was adequate. MPFLr was performed using a quadriceps tendon autograft. The graft was fixed with either an interference or additional suspensory fixation. A tibial tubercle osteotomy was performed in select indications. Patients were assessed with Kujala and International Knee Score (IKS) at a minimum 12-month follow-up and radiographically with plain radiographs. ResultsA total of 22 patients (23 procedures) were included. The mean follow-up period was 38 months (range 12-72). Average preoperative femoral component rotation on computed tomography was 0.10° external rotation (range 3° internal rotation to 3° external rotation). All patients had improved clinical and radiographic outcomes postoperatively. At the last follow-up, the mean IKS knee score was 77.6 ± 13.1, mean IKS function score was 75.2 ± 23.3, and mean Kujala score was 60.2/100 ± 10.9. There was 1 mechanical failure, which occurred following MPFLr with interference fixation. There were 6 complications (28.1%) postoperatively. Patients receiving double fixation of the MPFLr graft had higher clinical and radiographic scores; however, this difference was not statistically significant. MPFLr had a patella-lowering effect, 0.97 preoperatively to 0.74 postoperatively (P = .069). ConclusionMPFLr in appropriately selected patients is a satisfactory option to treat PFI following TKA.

Outcomes of medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction and tibial tubercle osteotomy in syndromic adolescents with patellar dislocation

BackgroundTreatment of congenital and habitual dislocation of the patella in syndromic adolescents can be difficult due to accompanying soft-tissue and/or osseous abnormalities often present in the knee. The aim of this study was to report the results of surgical treatment of congenital and habitual patellar dislocation with medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction and tibial tubercle osteotomy (TTO) in adolescents with an underlying syndrome. MethodsSyndromic adolescent patients with congenital or habitual patellar dislocation treated with MPFL reconstruction and TTO between 2005 and 2019 with a minimum of one year of follow-up were identified. Demographic, clinical, radiographic, and surgical data were recorded, and any complications were noted. Kujala and Lysholm scores were used to quantitate knee function. ResultsSeventeen knees in 11 patients met the criteria for inclusion. The mean age at operation was 14.8 years (range, 13.3–18.3 years). Patients were identified as having Ehlers-Danlos (four), Down (two), trichorhinophalangeal (one), McCune-Albright (one), Klippel-Feil (one), and generalized joint hypermobility (two) syndromes. The mean follow-up was 2.2 years for each individual knee (range, 1–5.9 years). The mean Kujala score increased from 56 ± 10 preoperatively to 86 ± 6 at the most recent postoperative visit (p < 0.001). The mean Lysholm score increased from 53 ± 10 preoperatively to 85 ± 7 at the most recent postoperative visit (p < 0.001). Knee flexion increased significantly from 117° ± 15° preoperatively to 154° ± 13° postoperatively (p < 0.001). However, knee extension was no different pre- and postoperatively (4° ± 8° vs. 1° ± 4°, respectively, p = 0.2). ConclusionsCongenital and habitual patellar dislocation in adolescent-aged patients with an underlying syndromic diagnosis can be successfully treated with MPFL reconstruction combined with TTO.

Modified Recession Wedge Trochleoplasty

Background: Trochlear dysplasia represents one of the main anatomic risk factors for patellar instability, with risk of failure and unfavorable clinical outcomes in patients with unaddressed dysplasia undergoing patellar stabilization. Indications: Patients with trochlear dysplasia characterized by supratrochlear prominence (DeJour B or D) and recurrent patellar instability, especially following failed soft tissue or bony stabilization. This technique addresses an anterior trochlea without pathologic convexity, as convexity may require conversion to other techniques for groove deepening (eg, DeJour “thick flap” or Schottle “thin flap”). Technique Description: A 6-cm lateral parapatellar arthrotomy is created. A marking pen is used to identify the native center of the trochlea, as well as the location of the planned resection and bony hinge point laterally. An osteotome is used to remove a wedge of bone proximally, such that the posterior aspect of the osteotomy is in line with the anterior femoral cortex. A resection guide is then used to perforate the lateral cortex, with care to avoid damaging the cartilage, and carried laterally and distally to ensure the bony cuts are connected, creating the bony flap. To ensure that all bony bridges are eliminated, the arthroscope is placed into the osteotomy to visualize reduction of the trochlea with manual pressure. A knotless PEEK anchor loaded with 8 loaded sutures is then placed on the roof of the trochlear notch. Sutures are then secured using anchors placed at the center of the trochlea, at the superolateral corner and far lateral edge of the trochlea to reduce the osteotomy, with 2 to 3 sutures placed in each anchor depending on surgeon preference. Results: Trochleoplasty has been reported to decrease the rate of recurrent patellar dislocation while improving mean Kujala score and knee function. Benefits of trochleoplasty must be balanced against the high rate of potential complications, primarily pain and decreased knee range of motion, secondary to the technical challenges and steep learning curve inherent to effectively performing the procedure. Discussion/Conclusion: Patients with recurrent patellar instability with trochlear dysplasia and failed prior stabilization may experience improved stability and outcomes following trochleoplasty.

The novel dynamic MPFL-reconstruction technique: cheaper and better?

PurposeReconstruction of the medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) is an established procedure to restore patellar stability. Aim of this study is to evaluate the results of a dynamic MPFL reconstruction technique in a large university hospital setting.MethodsTwo hundred and thirteen consecutive patients with 221 knees were surgically treated for recurrent lateral patellar dislocation. All patients obtained dynamic reconstruction of the MPFL with detachment of the gracilis tendon at the pes anserinus while maintaining the proximal origin at the gracilis muscle. Patellar fixation was performed by oblique transpatellar tunnel transfer. Follow-up data including Kujala and BANFF score, pain level as well as recurrent patella instability were collected at a minimum follow-up of 2 years.ResultsFollow-up could be obtained from 158 patients (71%). The mean follow-up time was 5.4 years. Mean pain level was 1.9 ± 2.0 on the VAS. Mean Kujala score was 78.4 ± 15.5. Mean BANFF score was 62.4 ± 22.3. MPFL-reconstructions that were performed by surgeons with a routine of more than ten procedures had a significantly shorter surgical time 52.3 ± 17.6 min. Male patients yielded higher satisfaction rates and better clinical scores compared to females. Complications occurred in 27.2% of procedures, 20.9% requiring revision surgery of which were 9.5% related to recurrent patellar instability. 78% of all patients indicated they would undergo the procedure again.ConclusionDynamic MPFL reconstruction presents a reproducible procedure with increased complication rates, inferior to the results of static reconstruction described in the literature. Despite, it appears to be an efficient procedure to restore patellar stability in a large university hospital setting, without the necessity for intraoperative fluoroscopy.Trial registrationThe study was registered in ClinicalTrials.gov with the registration number NCT04438109 on June 18th 2020.

Autologous osteochondral transplantation for focal femoral condyle defects: Comparison of mosaicplasty by arthrotomy vs. arthroscopy

BackgroundWhile many studies have reported the outcomes of open mosaicplasty, data on arthroscopic mosaicplasty are scarce. Only two cadaver studies have compared arthrotomy and arthroscopy. Moreover, the patello-femoral joint, which is the main donor site, has never been assessed using a specific functional score. The objective of this in vivo study was to compare arthrotomy and arthroscopy for mosaicplasty using both a global functional knee score and a specific score of the patello-femoral joint. HypothesisThe arthroscopic technique results in better functional patello-femoral outcomes. Material and methodsWe retrospectively compared two groups of 17 patients who underwent mosaicplasty for focal condylar cartilage defects, at our department between 2009 and 2019. Functional outcomes were assessed using the Kujala score and the Lysholm score, at least 1 year after surgery. The return to sports was assessed using the Tegner score. ResultsMean follow-up was 67.4±15.9 months in the arthrotomy group and 45.2±35.1 months in the arthroscopy group (p<0.01). Cartilage defect size was similar in the two groups (arthrotomy: 1.21±0.91cm2; arthroscopy: 0.92±1.23cm2; p=0.052). The mean Kujala score was 85±21.3 in the arthrotomy group and 91.9±13.7 in the arthroscopy group (p=0.064). The mean Lysholm score was 83.9±19.8 with arthrotomy and 89.5±14.9 with arthroscopy (p=0.1). The Kujala score was greater than 95 in 4 (26%) arthrotomy patients and 13 (81%) arthroscopy patients (p=0.003). The Lysholm score was higher than 95 in 4 (26%) arthrotomy patients and 12 (75%) arthroscopy patients (p=0.012). No patient underwent surgical revision for autograft failure. DiscussionThis is the first clinical study comparing arthrotomy and arthroscopy for mosaicplasty. Clinical outcomes were good with both techniques. The proportion of patients with excellent Lysholm and Kujala functional scores was significantly higher in the arthroscopy group than in the arthrotomy group. This result may be ascribable to decreased donor-site morbidity obtained with arthroscopy. Level of evidenceIV, retrospective observational comparative study.

Outcomes following Medial Patellofemoral Ligament Reconstruction with Allograft (177)

Objectives:Medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction (MPFLR) using allograft tissue has several potential benefits including the absence of donor site morbidity, ability to predict graft parameters, and decreased operative time. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of patients following MPFLR with allograft. Our hypothesis was that there would be a low rate of recurrent instability, and excellent clinical outcomes reported.Methods:A retrospective review of athletes who underwent MPFL Reconstruction, with a minimum of 12-month follow-up was performed. Recurrent instability (including re-dislocation and subluxation), Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) score, Kujala score, satisfaction, and whether they would undergo the same surgery again, were evaluated.Results:Overall, follow up was attained for 131 patients with 141 knees (73.4%). The mean patient age of 25.0 years, 67.4% females, and mean time to follow-up was 46.8 months (12-111). At final follow up, the mean VAS score was 1.4 ± 2.0, the mean Kujala score was 84.8 ± 15.6, the mean satisfaction score was 84% ± 26.0, and 117 (83.0%) would undergo the same procedure again if required. There was 17 (12.0%) patients that had recurrent instability, with 2 being re-dislocations (1.4%). A further procedure was performed in 14 patients (9.9%). There were no intra-operative complications in our series.Conclusions:There was a low rate of recurrent instability following MPFLR with allograft, with excellent patient reported outcomes, and a low complication rate.

Closing-wedge distal femoral osteotomy combined with medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction for recurrent patellar dislocation with genu valgum

BackgroundMedial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction (MPFLR) is a well-established procedure for addressing recurrent patellar dislocation (RPD) in young patients. However, despite being a promising procedure for RPD with genu valgum, there is a scarcity of reports on simultaneous MPFLR and closing-wedge distal femoral osteotomy (CWDFO). The purpose of the present study was to observe and analyse the clinical and imaging findings of CWDFO combined with MPFLR for RPD with genu valgum.MethodsFrom May 2015 to April 2018, 25 patients with RPD and genu valgum were surgically treated in our department. Anteroposterior long-leg, weight-bearing, lower-extremity radiographs, lateral radiographs and computed tomography (CT) scans of the patellofemoral joint were obtained, and the anatomical femorotibial angle (aFTA), mechanical lateral distal femoral angle (mLDFA), weight-bearing line rate (WBLR), patellar height, patellar lateral shift (PLS) and tibial tubercle–trochlear groove (TT-TG) distance were analysed. Validated knee scores, such as the Kujala, Lysholm, visual analogue scale (VAS) scores and Tegner socres, were evaluated preoperatively and 2 years postoperatively.Results25 patients, with an average age of 19.8 years (14–27), were evaluated. During the 2-year follow-up period, all patients were able to achieve a better sports level without any problems, with no recurrence of patellar instability. Compared with preoperation, the aFTA, mLDFA, WBLR and PLS showed statistically significant improvement following the procedure (p < 0.001). Meanwhile, no significant differences in the Insall index and TT-TG distance were found. The mean Kujala score, average Lysholm score, VAS score and Tegner socres showed significant postoperative improvement.ConclusionsCWDFO combined with MPFLR is a suitable treatment for RPD with genu valgum, and can lead to significant improvement in the clinical and imaging findings of the knee in the short term.

Medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction using autologous hamstring graft for recurrent patellar dislocation: a clinical and functional outcome evaluation

&lt;p&gt;Patellofemoral instability is a painful and often recurring disorder with many negative long-term consequences. Surgical treatment for patellar dislocation has evolved from the initial medial reefing to the present-day anatomical reconstruction of medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) which is thought to be the most appropriate treatment. MPFL reconstruction successfully addresses patellofemoral instability by restoring the deficient most important static primary soft tissue restraint. This prospective case series was conducted at a Tertiary care Govt. Hospital in Kolkata between January 2019 to August 2020 on 15 patients who underwent MPFL reconstruction for recurrent patellar dislocation. All patients were followed up at an interval of 2 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months and 6 months. Kujala score was used to assess the functional outcomes of the patients. Out of 15 patients, 13 (86.7%) showed good to excellent results whereas 2 (13.3%) had Fair outcome and none of the patients demonstrated Poor surgical result. The mean Kujala score improved from 49.6 pre-operatively to 92.7 post-operatively. By the end of 6 months follow-up, 13 (86.7%) patients achieved almost full range of motion. Majority (80%) of patients did not have any complications. Only 2 patients had a post-operative recurrence (13.3%). Reconstruction of MPFL using autologous hamstring graft showed excellent results over the short term with a low re-dislocation rate and acceptable complication rates. It greatly helps in preventing further episodes of patellar subluxations or dislocations and in improving quality of life.&lt;/p&gt;

Clinical Improvement Is Achieved Following Tibial Tubercle Distomedialization for Patellar Maltracking and Patella Alta Without Instability

PurposeTo determine short-term patient-reported outcomes following distomedial tibial tubercle transfer (TTT) in patients with patellar maltracking and patella alta without instability.MethodsA single-surgeon case series study was performed on patients receiving distomedial TTT for the indication of patellar maltracking and patella alta without instability, after nonresponse to conservative treatment. Patient-reported outcomes were assessed preoperatively and at 3-, 6-, 12-, and 24-month follow-up using Kujala, Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score (KOOS), and visual analog scale (VAS) pain scores. Generalized estimating equations analyses were performed to study improvement over time. Minimal clinically important differences obtained from literature were used to determine clinical relevance.ResultsA total of 40 patients were included. Eight patients were lost to follow-up; thus, outcomes of 32 patients were analyzed. Mean follow-up was 22 months, median age was 21 years, and 75% were female. Mean Kujala score increased pre- to postoperatively from 55 ± 12 to 79 ± 16 (P < .001), KOOS from 48 ± 14 to 79 ± 15 (P < .001), and VAS from 64 ± 17 to 25 ± 21 (P < .001), respectively. Eighty-four percent had clinical improvement of Kujala score, 91% of KOOS, and 78% of VAS score. A plateau phase in pain reduction was reached at 3 months, and in functional improvement at 6 months follow-up, after which no further significant improvement was observed. Complication rate was 3% and removal of hardware rate was 72%. Conclusions: In this case series study, distomedial TTT led to clinically relevant functional improvement and pain reduction in patients with patellar maltracking and patella alta without instability. However, the removal of hardware rate was high (72%).Level of EvidenceLevel IV, therapeutic case series.

Age at surgery is correlated with pain scores following trochlear osteotomy in lateral patellar instability: a cross-sectional study of 113 cases

BackgroundA trochlear osteotomy aims to restore patellar stability in patients with recurrent patellar instability and trochlear dysplasia. The age of patients at time of surgery could be a relevant factor which influences outcome. We hypothesized that lower age at time of surgery is associated with better patient-reported outcomes.MethodsA retrospective study was conducted on patients with patellar instability and trochlear dysplasia. Patients were contacted by phone for informed consent and were then asked to complete online patient-reported outcome measurements (PROMs). The PROMs consisted of the Kujala Knee Score (KKS) (Kujala et al., Arthroscopy 9(2):159-63, 1993; Kievit et al. Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc. 21(11):2647-53, 2013), the Short Form 36-item health survey (SF-36v1) (Ware, Med Care 73-83, 1992; Aaronson et al., J Clin Epidemiol. 51(11):1055-68, 1998), and visual analog scale (VAS) scoring pain, instability, disability, and satisfaction on a 0–100 scale. Multivariable linear regression models were used to study the effect of age on the PROM scores.ResultsFor this study, 125 surgical procedures in 113 patients were included. Mean VAS pain at rest was 19 and at activity 38; mean Kujala score was 73. Multivariable regression analysis revealed that age at the time of surgery was correlated with VAS pain at rest, with a 0.95 increase of VAS score (scale 0–100) for every year of age. Recurrence of instability was observed in 13 (10%) knees.ConclusionIn this cross-sectional study, pain scores of 113 patients who have undergone a lateral facet elevating trochlear osteotomy for patellar instability were reported. Age at time of surgery was correlated with an increased pain score at rest with an average of 9.5 points (scale 0–100) for every 10 years of age. Age at time of surgery was not correlated with overall satisfaction.

Evaluation of recurrent dislocation of the patella in children with MRI: Goldthwait technique combined with lateral release, and VMO advancement-a retrospective study of 85 knees.

There are certain risk factors responsible for patella instability that should be identified before choosing the most appropriate treatment. We evaluated 83 skeletally immature patients who, after two or more patellar dislocation episodes, underwent surgical treatment to address the condition of patellar instability. Each patient was evaluated for patellar instability risk factors using the Balcarek patellar instability severity score. Evaluation of patellar instability included knee MRI to systematically identify anatomical risk factors. The preoperative and postoperative clinical evaluation included the modified Cincinnati score and the Kujala score. The Roux-Goldthwait technique combined with lateral retinaculum release and the advancement of the vastus medialis oblique (VMO) was performed on all knees. The mean patient age at the time of surgery was 12.2 ± 1.59years (range 8-14years). The average follow-up was 4.72 ± 1.37 (range 3-8) years. Trochlear dysplasia (decreased trochlear depth), the most common anatomical risk factor, was identified in 71 knees (83.5%). The modified Cincinnati score increased from 58.46 ± 8.75 (range 49-76) points to 94.07 ± 2.88 (range 88-98) postoperatively. The mean Kujala scores increased from 58.51 ± 8.94 (range 49-76) points to 93.66 ± 2.65 (range 87-98) postoperatively. The two-tailed P value was less than 0.0001. The patients were followed until their skeletal maturation, without reporting any incidents of patella dislocation, except one. The Roux-Goldthwait technique combined with lateral retinaculum release, and the advancement of VMO, can restore patellar tracking and can decrease the probability of another dislocation. It was an effective treatment in skeletally immature patients who had two or more episodes of patellar dislocation. IV.

Arthroscopy\u2010controlled medial reefing and lateral release for recurrent patellar dislocation: clinical, radiologic outcomes and complications

BackgroundFew studies have reported the clinical outcomes of the medial reefing procedure and lateral release with arthroscopic control of medial retinacular tension in patients with recurrent patellar dislocation. The purpose of this study was to investigate the clinical, radiologic outcomes and complications of arthroscopy-controlled medial reefing and lateral release.MethodsPatients who underwent arthroscopy-controlled medial reefing and lateral release for recurrent patellar dislocation between November 2007 and June 2017 were retrospectively evaluated. The clinical outcome (Kujala score), radiologic outcome (congruence and patellar tilt angles), and complications were evaluated at final follow-up. The results were also compared with literature-reported outcomes of other surgical procedures for patellar dislocation.Results Twenty-five patients (mean age, 18.3 ± 4.8 years) were included in the study. The mean clinical follow-up period was 7.0 ± 2.5 (range, 3.8–12.2) years. The mean Kujala score was significantly improved from 54.7 ± 14.0 (range, 37–86) preoperatively to 91.0 ± 7.6 (range, 63–99) at a mean follow-up period of 7 years (P < 0.001). The radiologic results also significantly improved from 17.8° ± 5.9° to 6.8° ± 2.4° (P < 0.001) in the congruence angle and from 17.5° ± 8.2° to 5.6° ± 3.1° (P < 0.001) in the patella tilt angle at a mean follow-up period of 3.6 years. One patient developed a redislocation after a traumatic event, and two patients showed patellofemoral osteoarthritis progression.ConclusionsArthroscopy-controlled medial reefing and lateral release significantly improved the clinical and radiologic outcomes of the patients with recurrent patellar dislocation at a mean follow-up period of 7 years. The results of this study are comparable with the literature-reported outcomes of other surgical procedures for patellar dislocation.Level of evidenceLevel IV, retrospective therapeutic case series.

MPFL Reconstruction, 3 Years After the Goldthwait Patellar Tendon Hemi-transfer and Vastus Medialis Oblique Advancement, Performed to Treat Recurrent Patellar Instability: A Case Report

The treatment of patellar instability in skeletally immature patients is challenging for an orthopedic surgeon. We report a case of a 14 years old girl who after an acute traumatic dislocation of the left patella and the failed initial conservative treatment underwent medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction, using the fascia lata as an autograft. At the age of 10, the Roux-Goldthwait patellar tendon hemi-transfer combined with lateral retinacular release and the advancement of the vastus medialis oblique was performed for the treatment of the recurrent patella dislocation of both her knees. The patient evaluated for re-dislocation risk factors using the patellar instability severity score proposed by Balcarek et al. The clinical evaluation of the patient included the modified Cincinnati rating system and the Kujala score. The imaging assessment included knee MRI for the identification of anatomical risk factors. The four anatomical risk factors, trochlear dysplasia, increased tibial tubercle to trochlea groove offset, patella alta, and patellar tilting > 20°, were identified on MRI. At the final follow-up, the mean modified Cincinnati score increased from 49 to 90 points 6 years postoperatively. The mean Kujala scores increased from 49 to 91 points postoperatively. The MPFL reconstruction is an effective treatment to restore patellar stability in skeletally immature patients who underwent less successful surgeries to treat a recurrent patella dislocation.

Patients unable to return to play following medial patellofemoral ligament reconstructions demonstrate poor psychological readiness.

Medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction (MPFLR) is often indicated in athletes with lateral patellar instability to prevent recurrence and allow for a successful return to play. In this patient population, the ability to return to play is one of the most important clinical outcomes. The purpose of the current study was to analyze the characteristics of patients who were unable return to play following MPFL reconstruction. A retrospective review of patients who underwent MPFL reconstruction and subsequently did not return to play after a minimum of 12-months of follow-up was performed. Patients were evaluated for their psychological readiness to return to sport using the MPFL-Return to Sport after Injury (MPFL-RSI) score, which is a modification of the ACL-RSI score. A MPFL-RSI score > 56 is considered a passing score for being psychologically ready to return to play. Additionally, reasons for not returning to play including Visual Analog Scale for pain (VAS), Kujala score, satisfaction, and recurrent instability (including dislocations and subluxations) were evaluated. The study included a total of 35 patients who were unable to return to play out of a total cohort of 131 patients who underwent MPFL reconstruction as treatment for patellar instability. Overall, 60% were female with a mean age of 24.5, and a mean follow-up of 38months. Nine patients (25.7%) passed the MPFL-RSI benchmark of 56 with a mean overall score of 44.2 ± 21.8. The most common primary reasons for not returning to play were 14 were afraid of re-injury, 9 cited other lifestyle factors, 5 did not return due to continued knee pain, 5 were not confident in their ability to perform, and 2 did not return due to a feeling of instability. The mean VAS score was 1.9 ± 2.3, the mean Kujala score was 82.5 ± 14.6, and the mean satisfaction was 76.9%. Three patients (8.7%) reported experiencing a patellar subluxation event post-operatively. No patient sustained a post-operative patellar dislocation. Following MPFL reconstruction, patients that do not return to play exhibit poor psychological readiness with the most common reason being fear of re-injury. IV.

Early Patellofemoral Function of Medial Pivot Prostheses Compared with Posterior‐Stabilized Prostheses for Unilateral Total Knee Arthroplasty

ObjectiveTo systematically evaluate the patellofemoral joint design of medial pivot prosthesis, which incorporates a variety of “patella‐friendly” design features, by comparing clinical and radiographic results with another prosthesis.MethodsAll consecutive patients who underwent unilateral total knee arthroplasty (TKA) with medial pivot prosthesis (Group MP, 126 cases) between September 2016 and April 2018 were enrolled in this retrospective study. For each patient reviewed, a control patient was matched, according to age, gender, side, body mass index (BMI), preoperative range of motion (ROM), and operating period, who had received primary unilateral TKA with a conventional posterior‐stabilized prosthesis at the same period as the study group (Group PS, 126 cases). All patients underwent at least 1‐year follow‐up. At the preoperative and final follow‐up periods, data on the Knee Society Score (KSS) score, WOMAC score, Kujala score, and ROM were collected. Merchant views were taken with the knee flexion at 30°, 60°, and 90° to measure patella shift and tilt. Preoperative posterior condylar angle (PCA) was also measured. Postoperative complications, including anterior knee pain, maltracking, patellar clunk or crepitus (PCC), were evaluated.ResultsThere were no significant differences in the demographics or clinical characteristics between the two groups. No statistically significant difference was identified in the KSS total score, including knee score and function score, or in the Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC) score between the two groups after the operation. We found statistically significant differences in the postoperative Kujala scores and the ROMs between the two groups. The mean Kujala score in group MP was better than in group PS (MP 77.16 ± 3.80 vs PS 75.97 ± 4.06, P < 0.05), while the ROM in group PS was significantly higher than in group MP (MP 122.24° ± 4.45° vs PS 123.78° ± 6.05°, P < 0.05). Simultaneously, the preoperative/postoperative Kujala score improvement in group MP was observed to be significantly larger than in group PS (MP 27.82 ± 5.31 vs PS 26.17 ± 4.89, P < 0.05), but the average ROM improvement in group PS was significantly greater than in group MP (MP 19.00° ±9.90° vs PS 21.57° ± 9.62°). In the 90° Merchant view, the mean patella tilt of group MP was statistically smaller than that of group PS (MP 4.21° ± 1.62° vs PS 4.74° ± 1.95°, P < 0.05), and the average patella tilt change in group MP was significantly greater than in group PS (MP –3.8° ± 1.43° vs PS –3.23° ± 1.33°, P < 0.05). Preoperative PCA did not show significant differences between the two groups. Two cases of PCC and three cases of anterior knee pain were noted in group MP, and nine cases and six cases, respectively, were observed in group PS. The incidence of PCC was significantly lower in group MP (1.6% vs 7.1%, P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in follow‐up time between the two groups.ConclusionThe medial pivot prosthesis could achieve satisfactory outcomes with better patellofemoral performance attributed to its “patella‐friendly” design characteristics compared to the conventional posterior‐stabilized prosthesis.

High tibial derotation osteotomy for distal extensor mechanism alignment in patients with squinting patella due to increased external tibial torsion

BackgroundThe patellofemoral joint is often affected by torsionaldisorders of the lower limb, causing pain, instability and knee degeneration. The aims of this study were to determine functional outcomes of patients who underwent a high tibial derotation osteotomy (HTDO) for symptomatic squinting patella due to increased external tibial torsion. Moreover, factors associated with inferior clinical outcomes were investigated. MethodsPatients with symptomatic squinting patella, increased external tibial torsion (>30°) treated with this technique, and with 2 years of follow up were included. Fulkerson and Kujala patellofemoral joint scores were assessed. Age, body mass index, history of prior surgery, increased femoral anteversion, association of lateral retinaculum release and patellar cartilage lesions were analysed. ResultsSixty HTDOs were included in this retrospective study with an average of 66 months of follow up. The mean Kujala score improved from 47.5 preoperatively to 93 postoperatively. The mean Fulkerson score improved from 40.6 to 91.6. Kujala subscores for pain improved from 8.6 to 30.4, for instability improved from 6.4 to 17.9, and their ability to climb stairs increased from 6.9 to 17.9 (all P < 0.0001). Multivariate logistic regression model identified that patient age (P < 0.005) and advanced chondral damage (P < 0.001) were the dominant factors predicting inferior clinical outcomes using Kujala’s score. ConclusionHTDO provided good results regarding the pain symptoms, instability and the ability to climb stairs. Advanced chondral damage and advanced age had negative effects on outcomes.

Five-years outcome of medial patellofemoral ligament reconstruction in isolated post-traumatic tear: A retrospective study

IntroductionMedial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) reconstruction is the procedure of choice for lateral patellar dislocation. However, studies depicting the long terms results of this procedure is lacking. The present study was conducted to evaluate the functional outcomes after MPFL reconstruction at a minimum of five years follow-up. MethodsThis study was retrospective evaluations of patients who underwent MPFL reconstruction by basket weave method. A total of 35 patients (37 knees) with isolated MPFL tear who met the inclusion criteria were included in this study. These patients were assessed for functional outcome scores including Kujala score, International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score, Lysholm score and Tegner activity score at a minimum follow-up of 5 years. ResultsThe mean follow-up was 81.57 ± 16.07 months and mean age of patients was 19.56 ± 8.02 years. There was no re-dislocation in any of the patients but 4 patients had apprehension test positive (10.81%). The mean Kujala score, IKDC score and Lysholm score preoperatively and postoperatively after MPFL reconstruction were 62.20 ± 16.86 and 90.32 ± 16.42 respectively (p < 0.0001); 58.62 ± 14.34 and 85.15 ± 7.65 respectively (p < 0.0001); 68.21 ± 10.72 and 95.30 ± 8.02 respectively (p < 0.0001) at the five-year follow-up. Mean Tegner score pre-injury and post-surgery was 6.23 ± 2.10 and 5.82 ± 1.90 respectively (p = 0.38) at a mean follow-up of five years. ConclusionsMPFL reconstruction surgery for isolated MPFL tears without any associated bony deformity, or soft tissue alterations has a good long-term functional outcome.